What is the longest straight line you can walk?

Walking the Longest Straight Line on Earth

Earth’s spherical shape poses a unique challenge to walkers: determining the longest straight line one can traverse without encountering obstacles. The answer lies in understanding the concept of great circle routes.

Great Circle Routes

A great circle route is the shortest path between two points on the surface of a sphere. It follows the curvature of the Earth, resulting in a straight line on a globe. The equator is a perfect example of a great circle, forming a horizontal belt around the planet.

The Longest Straight Line

The longest possible straight line on Earth is a great circle route that follows the curvature of the Earth. This line starts in Babu, Sierra Leone, in West Africa, and continues for 13,592 kilometers (8,445 miles). The exact destination of this line is unknown, but it would likely fall in the Pacific Ocean.

Obstacles and Limitations

While the line from Babu is the longest straight line one could walk in theory, it faces several practical limitations. The line crosses numerous geographical barriers, including continents, oceans, and mountains. Consequently, it is not feasible to walk the entire length of this line without significant detours or obstacles.

Other Notable Straight Lines

Aside from the Babu line, other notable straight lines on Earth include:

• The Equator: The equator is a great circle that forms a horizontal belt around the Earth. Its circumference is approximately 40,075 kilometers (24,901 miles).
• The Prime Meridian: The prime meridian is a north-south line that divides the Earth into the eastern and western hemispheres. It passes through Greenwich, England.
• The Tropic of Cancer: The tropic of Cancer is a celestial line of latitude that marks the northernmost point on Earth where the Sun can appear directly overhead.
• The Tropic of Capricorn: The tropic of Capricorn is a celestial line of latitude that marks the southernmost point on Earth where the Sun can appear directly overhead.

Conclusion

The longest possible straight line one can walk on Earth is a great circle route that spans 13,592 kilometers from Babu, Sierra Leone. However, practical obstacles and geographical barriers render this line impossible to traverse in its entirety. Despite these limitations, understanding the concept of great circle routes provides a fascinating insight into the challenges of walking on a spherical planet.